tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23804888510385798762017-07-29T00:49:33.211-07:00Doug Ashby ArtPen &amp; Ink Fine Art And IllustrationDoug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-88085857249654528542016-02-27T11:02:00.000-08:002016-02-27T11:27:04.493-08:00The Universe And Trump<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fEiqmswGKTc/VtHxNZdzscI/AAAAAAAAClI/oWg1bW_SKyQ/s1600/galaxy%2Band%2Bplanets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fEiqmswGKTc/VtHxNZdzscI/AAAAAAAAClI/oWg1bW_SKyQ/s320/galaxy%2Band%2Bplanets.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen And Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>I have always been a bit of a science geek. Early on I was obsessed with watching, and reading, Carl Sagan's Cosmos. It simply is fascinating. As I got older a dear friend, who is a bit of a scientist, was always willing to indulge my curiosity and share his knowledge. Today that interest manifest itself in the consumption of many audio books about science. These are more global perspectives, as clearly my chief love in the world of brain growth lies in the humanities, nevertheless the learning continues. It was while listening to one such book, I listen when I draw, that this piece was conceived and rendered.<br /><br />However while doing it I kept thinking how the universe in many ways is like Donald Trump. More accurately how he is like the universe. Trump is an ever expanding ego force in our world. I have known of him since I was a boy, and now nearly thirty years later he continues to dominates our media and our consciousness more then ever.<br /><br />Science has come to understand in the last hundred years that our universe is expanding. For a time it was speculated that it would at some point contract under its own gravity. The anti Big Bang if you will. However recent inquiries and research has shown that is unlikely. The universe will continue to expand indefinitely and one day will be a cold, and nearly dead place.<br /><br />Trump seems to have no bounds within his own expansion. It is very perplexing given the inordinate amount of stuff he comes up with that should slow it down. For reasons unknown, he doesn't stop expanding. This is also similar to the universe as science has barely scratched the surface as to why the universe is expanding. There must be an energy that is driving it ever outward, but as of yet we have been incapable of grasping this. Speculation lies in the realm of dark energy. If this is true the universe would be abundant with this dark energy. Research and experiment is underway attempting to detect it, but to this point this has not happened.<br /><br />One could simply say that Trump's energy is the fact that America is ripe for a demogogue. And many have made references to historical moments when such people have seized power. Hitler being the prime example. But this is not Germany in the 1930's. This is America where we have seen nearly two hundred and forty years of a peaceful transfer of power with no significant repercussions. In all of history that is truly unprecedented. So what is it about this moment that is driving so many to follow a man who seems to defy all norms of decency. What is it that is allowing them to be caught up in Trumps ever expanding narcissism?<br /><br />And more frightening, what further dark energy might we discover as this demagogue continues to expand. Perhaps a reckoning is coming. Perhaps Trump will experience a Big Crunch as was once thought our universe will endure. Or maybe he will expand indefinitely and simply fade as his energy weakens from over reach. Time will tell. However we do not have billions of years as the universe does. The urgency is now.<br /><br />I hope you enjoy the art and thoughts.<br /><br />DoulDoug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-37519893938171472712016-02-16T10:50:00.002-08:002016-02-16T10:50:20.448-08:00An Ethical Dilemma <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F4h6_J0mQZk/VsNqIr-7GJI/AAAAAAAACk4/sZVeu0khZ7A/s1600/proto%2Bhuman%2Band%2Bbodi%2Btree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F4h6_J0mQZk/VsNqIr-7GJI/AAAAAAAACk4/sZVeu0khZ7A/s320/proto%2Bhuman%2Band%2Bbodi%2Btree.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Illustration By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>Firstly, sorry for being gone so long. Life simply has been busy. However recent improvements in technology should help a bit.<div><br /></div><div>This image has caused a bit of confusion for those who have seen it. Often people do not know what to make of the left side. When I inform them that it is a human embryo at day 9 after conception they simply go, Oh. I think they wonder what would compel me to illustrate such a thing.</div><div><br /></div><div>The idea came from a serious of books I listened to about how science is ever improving our lives and making the whole world generally a better place to live. I know that is a bitter pill for many to swallow, for varied reasons. Some simply watch to much news and can not believe the world is a better place then it ever has been to live. I do agree there is much work to be done. Many see the embryo as a battle line in an moral war. One that I believe is being wrongly fought at the expense of advances that could have profound implication for all of humanity.</div><div><br /></div><div>I wish the world we lived in was one where all human life conceived lived an ideal existence and that all had an opportunity for success. However that is overly ideal and the reality is many are born into situations that are anything but conducive to well being. Some choose, I believe wisely, to abort their pregnancies and spare the person a life that begins moving against terrible odds. The truth is those aborted fetuses could posses the requisite material we need to solve some of our most vexing medical issues and provide those alive with much less misery.</div><div><br /></div><div>That again is a hard pill to swallow. But if any of you have seen the devastation that demntia brings to those living with it, and around it, you might want to see what scientist can accomplish to treat it with those embryo's. And that is just one possibility in many. The ethical debate on this matter, that has prevented so much movement in this country towards such research, should be debated more openly and politicians should not fear an ignorant electorate when the potential is so great. Other nations will not have these dilemmas and could potentially reap the benefits of such advances first. Then we will buy it from them. That is also economically unsound for our future.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is so much to this debate, on many fronts. Ignorance must be combatted with the same fierceness, and hopes in educating, that the ignorant bring to the table. That is difficult however for the pragmatic type.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you enjoy the art and thoughts.</div><div><br /></div><div>Doug</div>Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-17958088549380611062015-05-26T12:24:00.000-07:002015-05-26T12:24:59.821-07:00Connective Morals<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R3VymB3CpFE/VWTEpquyCcI/AAAAAAAACkY/z1gsMisDJag/s1600/Moral%2Blandscape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R3VymB3CpFE/VWTEpquyCcI/AAAAAAAACkY/z1gsMisDJag/s320/Moral%2Blandscape.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Drawing By Dou</td></tr></tbody></table>An age old dilemma,<div>choose one act, or another.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is something we all are faced with everyday.</div><div>This is something that in time we learn defines who we are.</div><div><br /></div><div>But is there a degree of control, or are we at the mercy of who we are.</div><div><br /></div><div>What is it that makes us who we are?</div><div>What is it that guides our ability to decide one action from another.</div><div>What is it that influences our moral choices.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is an age old dilemma,</div><div>to choose one act or another.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is something we face everyday,</div><div>These ongoing actions do in time come to define us.</div><div><br /></div><div>What if anything can we do about it though.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lately I have been listening to a lot of books on brains, morals and character. There is a lot of interesting work going on in these areas as science begins to illuminate things that were once far out of our view. And in this particular epoch I think we all need to ask ourselves what it is that defines us morally. I don't necessarily mean the individual either. That seems to be compromising our compass a bit.</div><div><br /></div><div>So this artwork is inspired by some of the learning I have been doing. It is the first in a series that has a few more ideas bouncing around in my grey matter.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you like it. If you do feel free to grab a <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">print download</a> for yourself.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks, Doug.</div><div><br /></div>Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-88945868040900011242015-05-20T06:16:00.000-07:002015-05-20T06:16:29.333-07:00The Difficulty Of Change And Acceptence<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uzmm09SoosM/VVyFK1TPKmI/AAAAAAAACkE/p8JWsz85NY8/s1600/cherries%2Bin%2Bspace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uzmm09SoosM/VVyFK1TPKmI/AAAAAAAACkE/p8JWsz85NY8/s320/cherries%2Bin%2Bspace.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doug Ashby Pen &amp; Ink Drawing</td></tr></tbody></table>What is the noblest of all human endeavors,<div>What in the end manifests our future,</div><div>What then is the outcome of our actions?</div><div><br /></div><div>Should we be committed to a path no matter,</div><div>Should we swear allegiance at all cost to a higher purpose,</div><div>Should we accept ideas that challenge beliefs?</div><div><br /></div><div>If we do then will our life have purpose,</div><div>If we do then will we find content and harmony,</div><div>If we do then will progress be a closed door.</div><div><br /></div><div>For what if progress challenges our notions,</div><div>For what if our nature demands us to adapt,</div><div>For what if a purpose is really an adaptation?</div><div><br /></div><div>What then is the noblest of all human endeavors,</div><div>What then becomes of manifestation,</div><div>What actions then challenge us to rethink our outcomes.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is great difficulty in change, and it can be incredibly hard to accept challenges to our dogma.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>However they are inevitable.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Perhaps acceptance of change then is the noblest endeavor.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you like the art you see here then please feel free to <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">download</a> your own print copy. Simply follow the link provided.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you enjoy the thoughts and art,</div><div><br /></div><div>Doug</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>&nbsp;</div>Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-39458037182679796832015-05-16T10:06:00.003-07:002015-05-16T10:06:48.381-07:00Personal Moral Choice Or Survival<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iCmS5OhmNYs/VVdypjdLsgI/AAAAAAAACjs/5vRxqunazvM/s1600/brains%2Band%2Bbits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iCmS5OhmNYs/VVdypjdLsgI/AAAAAAAACjs/5vRxqunazvM/s320/brains%2Band%2Bbits.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Drawing By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>Ray Kurzweilis an interesting guy. I have listened to a few of his books and for the life of me I can not decide if I like his ideas, or agree with them. Some of them are pretty out their. His book, "The Singularity Is Near", was exceptional difficult to get through. The ideas were, in my humble opinion, a little to far fetched. I wonder if other listeners and readers felt as I do. I was almost ready to give up on him as an author, which is hard as he basically pioneered so much that is so useful and important. However I didn't and I tried his latest book. "How To Create A Mind."<br /><br />This book was along a similar path as the previous one mentioned, except it was a little more boiled down and not as grand in vision, as well as grandstanding. The basic premise is that we are near to having the technology to not only completely understand the workings of our minds, but to also enhance, artificially, their capabilities. Basically making us cyborgs. It also addresses the real possibility that in the near future we are likely to create a true A.I. and what that will mean to all of us, socially and morally. This artwork here deals with the enhancement aspect of our own brains.<br /><br />Sci-fi has for many years envisioned the possibility of human technological enhancement. Many believe that sci-fi not only exists as an accurate predictor of our future but also exists to help us prepare for the many challenges our advances in science will bring, both morally and socially. I tend to fall into the camp that sees it that way. In Kurzweil's "How To Create A Mind" he discusses the possibility that through computer integrated technology we will be able to enhance our own intelligence both by adding memory, connecting to the internet and allowing us to think faster, as computers now compute faster then we think. I find this to be interesting and the possibility raises many questions.<br /><br />Who will first have access to this technology when it arises. As with all technologies it often first goes to those who can afford it. In many ways to those who will not benefit most from it. The uber wealthy in many ways will just use this as a way to further keep their grip on the world. What also are the implications as the tech becomes more widespread? Will there will be those that find this alteration to be abhorrent and against human nature. Will we then see a "Gattaca" like effect where those who choose not to utilize such technology will e left behind? Will a new sub class emerge as in "Gattaca."<br /><br />I would be curious to hear your thoughts on the matter and to get a discussion going. If Kurzweil is right on this one, and he has been right many times, perhaps now is the time to start thinking about it. At this moment I do not know what I would would choose for myself if I had a chance to do such a thing. Would my concern for my children's future be different then mine? I just don't know right now.<br /><br />So lets chat. Get in touch at <a href="mailto:dashbyart@gmail.com">dashbyart@gmail.com</a>. If you would like to download a print of the artwork to do yourself then simply visit my <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">downloads page</a>.<br /><br />Thanks and I hope you like the art.<br /><br />DougDoug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-77838801443476788052015-04-05T09:28:00.000-07:002015-04-05T09:28:12.470-07:00The Whole Life Force<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-shFPTHh8boM/VSFeqVpSXcI/AAAAAAAACjU/yLwP1XfPRH4/s1600/chicken%2Band%2Belectron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-shFPTHh8boM/VSFeqVpSXcI/AAAAAAAACjU/yLwP1XfPRH4/s1600/chicken%2Band%2Belectron.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>In my many years of cooking I have become a big fan of purchasing a whole chicken as opposed to it's cut up individual pieces. It is safe to say that it is more economical as the processing adds to the cost. However it may not seem that way to you at the time of purchase due to spending a larger amount in one shot, but when you achieve three meals out of that one chicken, well that adds up.<br /><br />My preferred way to utilize the chicken is to simply cut it in half, removing the backbone and boiling for stock. Make sure you use a sturdy and sharp knife for this as it makes the work easier. Then I typically roast one half that night and brine the other half for two days before cooking. The last time I did this I smoked the second half, took the meat off the bone and made chicken salad with it. That made a delicious dinner and lunch the next day. Oh and the leftover smoky skin and bones makes an impressive smoky stock.<br /><br />The drawing here is my homage to the whole chicken. It is drawn cut up into it's constituent pieces, which I sometimes do. And those breasts are further cut in half cause they are big. A while back I started purchasing all my meat from a few local farms that raise them. Personally I think they taste better, as they are raised better, and taste tends to drive my choices. The electron in the drawing is there to symbolize the life force behind the chicken. Sorry if that bothers you but one must consume life to live. Another reason I prefer local chickens, they tend to be closer to their nutritious life force. That's probably what makes them taste better.<br /><br />I do hope you like my drawing. If you wish to download a PDF print file for your own use please do so by visiting my <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">downloads page</a>.<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />DougDoug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-34518598080805189452015-04-03T07:11:00.000-07:002015-04-03T07:11:46.550-07:00To Toil And To Till<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YQqnkeVy2So/VR6ZEFR4T_I/AAAAAAAACiw/jqh2MEp3Rk0/s1600/eggplant%2Bsnd%2Bmoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YQqnkeVy2So/VR6ZEFR4T_I/AAAAAAAACiw/jqh2MEp3Rk0/s1600/eggplant%2Bsnd%2Bmoon.jpg" height="244" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table><i>To toil and till once was all.</i><br /><i>To toil and till once was considered undignified.</i><br /><i>How was it possible that we were so wrong.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Impressed with our perceived dominion we set about to save.</i><br /><i>And save we did but at great loss.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Now some are beginning realize that to toil and till is worth our deference.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Now some are beginning to understand that we wish to not be adrift when it comes to toil and tillage, and we understand that what once was all needs to be acknowledged.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>And celebrated.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>For to toil and to till is worth the energy and redress of all.</i><br /><i><br /></i>A stippled pen and ink drawing of an eggplant. I know it might not look exactly like that, but that was the inspiration. I will always return to food as subject as it is an important source of creativity for me, as well as nourishment.<br /><br />If you are interested in purchasing this original drawing please visit my <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/store.html">store page</a>. If you are interested in downloading a free print your own copy then please visit my <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">downloads page</a>.<br /><br />Thanks and I hope you like the artwork,<br /><br />Doug.Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-60779734638814016392015-03-10T12:22:00.001-07:002015-03-10T12:24:13.377-07:00The Night Queen<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTOX58fQxgE/VP9DkcxVJFI/AAAAAAAACh8/D2oZgI7bfO0/s1600/mountains%2Band%2Bmoons%2Bwith%2Bsymbols.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTOX58fQxgE/VP9DkcxVJFI/AAAAAAAACh8/D2oZgI7bfO0/s1600/mountains%2Band%2Bmoons%2Bwith%2Bsymbols.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table><i>The darkness of the evening was encompassing.</i><br /><i>Almost nothing, not even the night queen could penetrate.</i><br /><i>The darkness is now our ally.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>For in the darkness we come alive.</i><br /><i>Finding our voice.</i><br /><i>Finding our solace.</i><br /><i>Finding our freedom.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>We created this world to suit us.</i><br /><i>We created this world to the best of our ability.</i><br /><i>We didn't create this world to transform.</i><br /><i>We didn't create this night to hide.</i><br /><i>This darkness is not why we choose.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>For darkness has become a welcome respite.</i><br /><i>For darkness is now our friend.</i><br /><br />Please visit my <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">Downloads</a> page to print your own artwork.<br /><br />As always, I hope you like the work,<br /><br />Thanks, Doug.<br /><br /><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-51508901019740785532015-03-05T12:32:00.001-08:002015-03-05T12:32:40.457-08:00The Edge Of Tomorrow<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bVeZXeG9B8o/VPi5nmK95vI/AAAAAAAAChs/F4ohIoS_VqA/s1600/other%2Bfloating%2Bworld%2Bseries%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bVeZXeG9B8o/VPi5nmK95vI/AAAAAAAAChs/F4ohIoS_VqA/s1600/other%2Bfloating%2Bworld%2Bseries%2B1.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table><i>As we watched this new world from a distance,</i><br /><i>this world that we shaped through our collective ego's,</i><br /><i>we each wondered in turn what lie ahead.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Was it our impetuous that brought us to this point?</i><br /><i>Was it our over confidence in a power?</i><br /><i>A power that turned out to be short sighted?</i><br /><i>Or was it a destiny that has yet to reveal it's true nature?</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Some believe we have learned a little,</i><br /><i>and that is the reason we watch,</i><br /><i>watch from afar, from the edge of tomorrow.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>However I believe differently.</i><br /><i>I believe this day has come to deliver us to unfamiliar space.</i><br /><i>To territory designed to humble, designed to educate.</i><br /><i>Designed to reduce us once again to the true nature of what and who we are.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>For looking back from the edge is our only hope.</i><br /><i><br /></i>I truly hope you like the artwork and the accompanying words. If you are interested in downloading and printing a copy for your self please visit my <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">Downloads</a> page.<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />Doug.Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-44613178032453666012015-02-27T11:01:00.005-08:002015-02-27T11:01:58.237-08:00A Manifest Of Toil<div style="text-align: left;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jB9IxAv4zmE/VPC65qMlyAI/AAAAAAAACgY/Api47W7W7tU/s1600/peppers%2Band%2Babstract%2Blandscape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jB9IxAv4zmE/VPC65qMlyAI/AAAAAAAACgY/Api47W7W7tU/s1600/peppers%2Band%2Babstract%2Blandscape.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Drawing By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table><i>The chosen path was not one of ease.</i><br /><i>I did not tread lightly in decision,</i><br /><i>and many a moon was spent indecisive.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>But how could I not fulfill a dream that without me might be lost.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>How could I not respond to all that had come before me, and perhaps in the process elevate what once was, and forgotten, to a new ideal.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>To a new reality.</i><br /><i>To a new station.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>For my destiny is to toil and manifest anew.</i><br /><br />For me this might be one of my favorite artworks I have ever done. In fact I think I will have to create a stipple version of it, despite having believed I was done with that process. A notion I always seem to be fooling myself on.<br /><br />The work is not necessarily new for me, on a conceptual level. I have done many food artworks in the past, and many more that have abstract, almost surreal landscapes. In a previous work I married those ideas and did a piece that I thought was fresh and unique. This second one just took that to a new level. At least in my eyes. Truthfully I can not say for sure what it is I love about this drawing. Is it the composition, the value and contrast, the hatching. Probably a combination of all.<br /><br />I sincerely hope you like it as much as I do and that you <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">download</a> yourself one and print it out. I would love to hear your thoughts so please leave some feedback.<br /><br />Thanks, Doug.<br /><br /><br /><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-86726376496345547052015-02-21T11:27:00.000-08:002015-02-23T16:13:07.997-08:00One Is The Lonliest.....<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-69NeEAPI5QQ/VOjVnRzO3pI/AAAAAAAACfs/FXryQc0fPbE/s1600/poly%2Bfarm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-69NeEAPI5QQ/VOjVnRzO3pI/AAAAAAAACfs/FXryQc0fPbE/s1600/poly%2Bfarm.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Drawing By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>Some people might say that when it comes to food I can be a bit obsessive. They would more then likely be right. For the greater part of my life, and certainly all of my adult life, I have had a need to cook. Truly I think it springs from the same part of me that needs to draw, and create music. It is simply another extension of my brainy hands.<br /><br />In the past few years I have also, like so many people these days, become a little concerned about where my food is coming from, and how it was produced. There are of course the various media outlets and journalists giving credence to this. Most notably, Michael Pollan, who's various books on the subject I have read, and whole cable channels devoted to cooking and sourcing the best food you can. Basicaslly it all came together for me and I have been doing my best to be more conciseness about what I put into my, and my families mouth.<br /><br />This is definitely not as easy as you would think and there have been many moments where I felt like the whole thing was a big waste of time. However there are a few core things I believe I will always strive for with my food choices. <br /><br />First and foremost I try and choose organic as much as possible and I want my meat to not have been raised with hormones and antibiotics. This is not an easy thing. While I am not a slave to the organic produce I tend to be with the antibiotics. Hopefully the government will soon ban the use. They have already taken a step in that direction with recommended guidelines. I do try and shop local when I can and I am lucky enough to have an excellent local farm that produces some of the best produce I have ever had. However they are not totally organic. But they are a family farm and they want their land to be useful for their children so their stewardship is a concern, and they are evoloving.<br /><br />This is the crux of what I have drawn about here. The farm. I don't believe a farmer has to be totally organic to be a good steward of their land. The real key is to be a poly-culture. The real enemy in farming and food production is mono-culture. Fortunately this seems to be the lesson we learned form the so called green revolution of the post World War 2 era. Along with liberal use of chemical fertilizer mono culture farms are doing a job on our most precious resource. The soil.<br /><br />As a teacher I encourage my really smart kids to consider a career in farming. Certainly the customers for better food will be there and certainly we as a society are heading towards a more local, and sustainable approach. I don't think that everyone needs to go back to farming like we all once lived, but doing what you can, like buying local and organic when possible helps. Truthfully I believe in the near future that will be almost half of what we find in our grocery stores. Then it all becomes real easy and widely available. More local farms will equal more ease for the consumer to acquire the goods at, yes, even a price chopper.<br /><br />I could go on and on. But I wont. I would love to hear your thoughts, so leave a comment, or email me. Also if you like the art don't forget to visit my <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">download page</a> and print one for yourself.<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Doug<br /><br /><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-74925591194353131242015-02-20T08:21:00.000-08:002015-02-20T08:21:49.351-08:00Intent And Fragility<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XsHpT1ZaWJg/VOdbWQqFE_I/AAAAAAAACfg/2JYz-nwD9Iw/s1600/other%2Bfloating%2Bworld%2Bseries%2B2(fruit%2Btree).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XsHpT1ZaWJg/VOdbWQqFE_I/AAAAAAAACfg/2JYz-nwD9Iw/s1600/other%2Bfloating%2Bworld%2Bseries%2B2(fruit%2Btree).jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table><i>The fragility was not expected,</i><br /><i>and never the intent.</i><br /><br /><i>We only wanted to do the right thing, to be responsible, and our awesome power was sure to lead us where we needed to go.</i><br /><br /><i>However the hubris, as always gets in the way,</i><br /><i>and now we need to use our other greatest asset.</i><br /><br /><i>Our ability to adapt.</i><br /><br /><i>For surely if we don't dire consequences await us, and much will be lost, possibly forever.</i><br /><br /><i>I will not fault ourselves though, for we were just trying to do the right, and noble thing.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Will we ever learn?</i><br /><br />When I first started drawing these images I was not really sure what their intent was. Now I think I understand. The broken, floating, earth at first was a fancy of my sci-fi loving brain. I wanted to believe that these landscapes were strange extra terrestrial worlds. I didn't quite realize that the imagery was being influenced by work I had done many years earlier as well as from some audio books I had been listening to.<br /><br />Strange how that works sometimes. How unconsciously things can find a way into your work and in the moment you just don't realize it. I guess that is a sign that I am allowing myself to be open to new ideas and new trends in my thinking and art. Lucky for me the blog outlet finally connected the dots.<br /><br />Sorry for being so cryptic. As always I would love to hear your thoughts.<br /><br />Doug<br /><br /><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-55715039981159381552015-02-07T10:07:00.001-08:002015-02-07T10:07:26.952-08:00For The Love Of It<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XhjQFBFsBLI/VNZMca9zhkI/AAAAAAAACec/J6UDeQxuhos/s1600/garlic%2Baceo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XhjQFBFsBLI/VNZMca9zhkI/AAAAAAAACec/J6UDeQxuhos/s1600/garlic%2Baceo.jpg" height="320" title="Garlic Pen &amp; Ink By Doug Ashby" width="233" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>If you have been following me at all then you know in addition to drawing I absolutely love to cook. In fact not that long ago I came very close to abandoning my teaching career and buying the bakery I worked in before teaching. I had such plans for the place and the direction I would have taken it. However, it simply was not the time for me to make such a move in my life, and well when all was said and done I know I made the right decision for me and my family. Still, I love to cook.<br /><br />A while back I thought I would combine my two great passions a little more thoroughly. So I began to draw some of the foods I like to cook with. Oh and there will be a lot more of these to come as I really do not have a narrow palette. Basically if it is real food I use it.<br /><br />Here we have garlic. One of the basic ingredients that makes into mostly everything I create. The local farm grows their very own and I have to say that is the best stuff when it is fresh out of the earth. So pungent and biting when smashed and chopped and so aromatic when slowly cooked with onions and basically whatever else you cook with it. I simply do not feel I can cook without it.<br /><br />The artwork you see here is a scan of an original stippled, ACEO. If you are not familiar with ACEO's it is an acronym for "Art Card Edition or Original." The size of an ACEO is always the same, a tiny 2.5" x 3.5". They not only make the perfect artwork for that small space in your home, they also are a very affordable way to get your hands on some original artwork. This ACEO you see here is a mere $40.00, with $1.50 shipping and handling if mailed in the US. If you are interested either email me at <a href="mailto:dashbyart@gmail.com">dashbyart@gmail.com</a>, or click the buy now button below.<br /><br />I also would love to hear your thoughts on the art, so do not hesitate to get in touch.<br /><br />Thanks, Doug.<br /><br /><form action="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr" method="post" target="_top"><input name="cmd" type="hidden" value="_s-xclick" /><input name="hosted_button_id" type="hidden" value="EKBB7T347TWJA" /><input alt="PayPal - The safer, easier way to pay online!" border="0" name="submit" src="https://www.paypalobjects.com/en_US/i/btn/btn_buynowCC_LG.gif" type="image" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.paypalobjects.com/en_US/i/scr/pixel.gif" width="1" /></form>Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-7624627962122200542015-01-31T11:21:00.002-08:002015-01-31T11:24:57.558-08:00The Edge Of Where<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_LPGxn23kQg/VM0m2lcMyLI/AAAAAAAACeI/quj9qttH09g/s1600/woman%2Band%2Bcliff%2Btree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_LPGxn23kQg/VM0m2lcMyLI/AAAAAAAACeI/quj9qttH09g/s1600/woman%2Band%2Bcliff%2Btree.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen&amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table><i>The image of the edge.....the edge of what though, was creeping into her dreams much more often. Maybe it was the monotony of the journey. Perhaps it was that she was missing all that she has left behind. More then likely it was a little bit of both.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>She couldn't help but feel though that this recurring image in her dream meant something. It didn't feel ominous in anyway, just the opposite really. Still she couldn't quite put her finger on what she was supposed to glean from it.</i><br /><br /><i>The journey forward still had considerable time left before their arrival. Maybe she will discover more about what this dream is revealing, if anything at all.</i><br /><br />As in the past, if you have read my blog before, you know I like to put a little bit of creative verse writing in to go a long with the artwork. It's funny just last night on facebook my college professor asked if I ever did this. That made me feel good as I still look up to her for guidance on what to do artistically from time to time. It was a nice feeling to know I was doing something she would have suggested to me.<br /><br />This artwork is a bit of a departure for me as I do not do people often. I feel it is something I need to do more of so that I can build some strength in that area. I believe it adds a more distinct idea as to what I am trying to communicate. Maybe.<br /><br />As always this artwork is for sale. It is drawn with Micron Sakuru archival ink pens on heavy weight, acid free, Canson Cream Fine Art Paper. This combination is guaranteed fade resistant for 200 years, in case you want to hand it down. The cost is $150.00, of which half will be donated to Project Bread. Check out my <a href="http://www.dashbyart.com/p/shop-stock-art.html">shop page</a> for more info. If you are interested please email me directly at <a href="mailto:dashbyart@gmail.com">dashbyart@gmail.com</a>.<br /><br />As always I welcome any and all thoughts on the art so do not hesitate to get in touch.<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />Doug<br /><br /><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-31746327920594571552014-11-12T04:39:00.000-08:002014-11-12T04:39:07.113-08:00Three Little Floating World ACEO's<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IoXONLS5oB0/VF-WIcMKUVI/AAAAAAAACdE/FC8IkwMx_6A/s1600/floating%2Bworld%2Btree%2BACEO%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IoXONLS5oB0/VF-WIcMKUVI/AAAAAAAACdE/FC8IkwMx_6A/s1600/floating%2Bworld%2Btree%2BACEO%2B2.jpg" height="320" width="227" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen And Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table><i>This new world was indeed a strange place. A seemingly physical contradiction. It simply shattered our notion of physics and the universe. For how could a planet be so apparently hospitable to our needs and at the same time so baffling. </i><br /><i><br /></i><i>When we first arrived we were not sure exactly what it was floating all over the atmosphere. So we decided to get a closer look and what we found will forever change us. It is the reason we call this new world "the floating world." Our best guess is that something in the worlds relationship with the host planet and the other orbiting worlds is causing large swaths of ground to break off and float away. Yet these chunks do not die. No in fact they thrive.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>Our first outpost is on one of the larger pieces. We felt it would be safer here, before we see what is below. In many ways I don't want to leave because the beauty of this place is breathtaking. However that is not our nature, nor our mission, and soon we will be moving on once again.</i><br /><br />I like to write little tiny fictions about the work I do. For me it adds a little more mystery to the art <br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x3gCVW8HCZI/VGNSyYaN4lI/AAAAAAAACdU/QkpqFTDhrQg/s1600/floating%2Bworld%2Btree%2BACEO%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x3gCVW8HCZI/VGNSyYaN4lI/AAAAAAAACdU/QkpqFTDhrQg/s200/floating%2Bworld%2Btree%2BACEO%2B3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>itself. Something a little bit further to contemplate. These three ACEO's artworks are part of my larger floating world series. Inspired by both my love of science fiction and what extra terrestrial worlds might be like, and the Ukiyo-e, or floating world art, of 18th and 19th century Japan. An homage if you will to that which attracts me artistically.<br /><br />All three are going to be posted on etsy today and are for sale. They are $40.00 each. Not bad for original art. If you are interested in purchasing them please visit <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DougAshbyArt">my shop</a>. You need not have an etsy account to make a purchase and all major credit cards are accepted.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-czp4nrkqZWI/VGNS1kqVdpI/AAAAAAAACdc/RFyDyOfDa3Q/s1600/floating%2Bworld%2Btree%2BACEO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-czp4nrkqZWI/VGNS1kqVdpI/AAAAAAAACdc/RFyDyOfDa3Q/s200/floating%2Bworld%2Btree%2BACEO.jpg" width="141" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>If you have any questions and or simply wish to inquire about the three pieces you see here do not hesitate to contact me directly at <a href="mailto:dashbyart@gmail.com">dashbyart@gmail.com</a>. I welcome any and all feedback.<br /><br />Thanks and I hope you enjoy the art,<br /><br />Doug<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-45430096540272446542014-11-02T08:40:00.000-08:002014-11-02T08:40:29.687-08:00Inspiration From Strange Sources<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BrD11fReEPs/VFZaC3sWeLI/AAAAAAAACc0/D761XP8FOII/s1600/linda%2Bhair%2Babstract%2Baceo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BrD11fReEPs/VFZaC3sWeLI/AAAAAAAACc0/D761XP8FOII/s1600/linda%2Bhair%2Babstract%2Baceo.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>If you are an artist then you know that inspiration can creep up on you at the strangest moments. I don't believe I am consciously always on the lookout for my next idea, but in many ways I think my eyes, and mind, are open in different ways that makes finding inspiration possible. For this piece, and others in the same series, the inspiration came from a place I am at everyday. A place that is so routine one could be there in their sleep......that's used as a figure of speech.<br /><br />This abstract artwork came to me in the shower. That's right, the shower. I know....I know. Not the most likely spot to launch a series of artworks. However one day I happened to see something, that I had seen many times before, just in a new light. It was my wife's hair. Now don't get too grossed out. I have to tell you my wife has a gorgeous mane of thick, long and curly red hair. And she sheds a lot. However she is really good at cleaning up after herself. Sometimes though, as life with little kids and full time jobs is busy, she leaves some behind. Always though she gathers up the strands and puts the on the edge to throw away later.<br /><br />Now this particular clump was forming, as strange as this sounds, perfect circles built around the flowing strands. Very similar to the artwork you see here. I stared at this amazing collection of hair for a time and then took a pic of it after. Needless to say it served as the basis for a series of abstracts I have been working on. Perhaps this story is too much information, however I felt it need to be told.<br /><br />The artwork seen here is an ACEO. If you are not familiar with that acronym it stands for Art Card Edition or Original. This one is an original artwork. ACEO's are small coming in only at 2.5" x 3.5". They are designed to be collectibles. I have seen whole albums of these that art lovers collect. They are affordable and fun.<br /><br />This one is for sale on my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DougAshbyArt">etsy page.</a> It is a mere $40.00. Not bad for an original, archival, piece of fine art. If you would like to see more then <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209094903/original-pen-ink-aceo-pointillist?ref=shop_home_active_5">check it out</a>!<br /><br />As always I hope you enjoy the art.<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />Doug.<br /><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-53861092338656255822014-10-26T08:38:00.001-07:002014-10-26T08:38:11.529-07:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OuZOD5J9keM/VE0RbhreHzI/AAAAAAAACcQ/-3JarYiXKo0/s1600/abstract%2Bgeo%2Blong%2Bvertical.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OuZOD5J9keM/VE0RbhreHzI/AAAAAAAACcQ/-3JarYiXKo0/s1600/abstract%2Bgeo%2Blong%2Bvertical.jpg" height="177" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>While a great deal of my work deals in abstraction, specifically abstracting nature, there are times when I deal in a more pure form of it. Working simply with shapes that contrast one another, or lines that interweave a piece into a more complete whole.<br /><br />This piece is one such artwork. It is nothing more then a play on contrasting geometric shapes and the use of line to bring it all together. It is part of a larger group of work I call my "Geo Abstract Series."<br /><br />Truthfully I am not absolutely sure of where the inspiration for this series comes from. In addition to being an artist I am also an art teacher. Perhaps it sprung out of lessons I do based on the elements and principles of design. Specifically shape, contrast and movement. Perhaps it emerged out of my incessant need to put circular objects in so much of my work? I can't be sure but I do find the work interesting.<br /><br />And of course I hope you do as well. The original drawing is for sale on my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DougAshbyArt">etsy page</a>. If you are interested in purchasing it simply click <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208589835/original-pen-ink-pointillist-artwork-by?ref=shop_home_active_1">here</a>. You do not need an account to purchase the art and all major credit cards are accepted.<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />Doug.Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-72808190651016207192014-10-22T11:29:00.000-07:002014-10-23T14:54:49.582-07:00The Scratchy Brain Cell<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mUIfV4qtiDM/VEf05uaeznI/AAAAAAAACcA/IpxGv2W8vLM/s1600/brain%2Bcell%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mUIfV4qtiDM/VEf05uaeznI/AAAAAAAACcA/IpxGv2W8vLM/s1600/brain%2Bcell%2B2.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scratch Board Illustration By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>The scratch board. Oh how I love thee......let me count the ways. Well I guess that is a bit dramatic. Anyway I do enjoy working in this particular medium. However, I do not do nearly enough of it.<br /><br />It is harder to come by in many ways then the simplicity of paper and pen, and in the end it is much more precious. If you mess up there really is no turning back and your investment in seems greater then simple pen and paper. However, I feel that my artwork translates very nicely to it.<br /><br />This artwork is a depiction of a brain cell. A simple neuron. I have done a few of these and I have a feeling I will certainly be doing more in the future. There is something so very fascinating to me about creating art about the very thing that in the end creates the art. Sort of paradoxical in many ways. Perhaps in the past you have seen some of the other work I have done on this subject. If not, please stay tuned.<br /><br />This artwork is for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208145865/original-scratch-illustration-by-doug?">sale</a> if you are interested. If you are then please have a look at it on my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DougAshbyArt">etsy page</a>. I use etsy because it has been around a long time and quite honestly their system for presenting artwork to the customer, engaging with a potential customer and doing a transaction is very good. So if you would like, please have a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208145865/original-scratch-illustration-by-doug?">look</a>.<br /><br />As always I hope you enjoy the art. I would love to hear your thoughts on that so please do not hesitate to get in <a href="mailto:dashbyart@gmail.com">touch</a>.<br /><br />Thanks, Doug.<br /><br /><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-26909587202752810012014-10-21T14:57:00.001-07:002014-10-21T14:57:55.878-07:00New Myth's<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ThO7wd5jmQ/VEbTTfXjO0I/AAAAAAAACbw/Sx-34zM0Ub8/s1600/new%2Bmyths%2Bpollution.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ThO7wd5jmQ/VEbTTfXjO0I/AAAAAAAACbw/Sx-34zM0Ub8/s1600/new%2Bmyths%2Bpollution.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>This is an older artwork that I did. In fact it is one of the first stipple illustrations I have done. It also was one of the first that departed form doing comfortable subject matter. Prior to this piece I had been honing my craft on flowers, hence the it's presence in this piece. I still do flowers and a lot of nature art, however with this piece I was striving for something different.<br /><br />The inspiration for it came from watching a PBS special on Joseph Campbell. If you do not know who he is then I suggest a google search. He is a fascinating subject. He is probably the most significant American philosopher to come along in a long time and might remain that way long after his death. The majority of his work focused on the idea of "the hero" in the great historical writings. He has influenced many contemporary writers, artists and filmmakers. In fact one could argue that without him Star Wars might never have come to be.<br /><br />In the Interview and PBS special I speak of Mr. Campbell spoke on a topic he was recently thinking about and it is one that stuck with me. It was the idea that new myth's, to deal with our changing world, must be invented. He suggested that it was up to to the writers, musicians and visual artists to do this. Needless to say I heard what he was saying and this is the first artwork to come from that inspirational path.<br /><br />I actually have not done many works based on this path. Sometimes it is just easier to stick with safer subject matter and draw flowers.....and frogs. But I know that in the end that will not completely satisfy me. In the end I will have to once again delve deeper and attempt to be a part of shaping these new mythologies. Perhaps a few of my fellow creative types would like to have a go at it.<br /><br />As always. I simply hope you enjoy the art.<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />DougDoug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-21585081575789386462014-10-16T02:21:00.001-07:002014-10-16T02:21:26.243-07:00She Moved With Grace......<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KgZlCqpbhhU/VD-I7_y18sI/AAAAAAAACbc/D0uv_dJEuKs/s1600/floating%2Bworld%2Bwith%2Bgirl%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KgZlCqpbhhU/VD-I7_y18sI/AAAAAAAACbc/D0uv_dJEuKs/s1600/floating%2Bworld%2Bwith%2Bgirl%2B2.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table><i>Solitude was always something profoundly important to her. It is at these moments when clarity could be reached and a wishful hope of understanding might be found. The danger always was though that in these moments she would get lost and further isolate herself from what was expected.</i><br /><i><br /></i><i>The fear of course lied within that thin veil between what she needed, what she wanted, and what she might gain and or lose. For there was much at stake and often she wondered, what did it really matter.</i><br /><br />I often like to write some fictional words to go along with my artwork. Sometimes while creating them I dream up an accompanying story, then those words flow from those thoughts. Often I do not and the words happen spontaneously when I sit down to write the blog entries. Often I do dream of expanding on the ideas created along the way, then life often gets in the way.<br /><br />Needless to say the art goes on and a new piece emerges. This is one in a series I am developing that sprang out of my interest in the Japanese Ukiyo-e, or floating world art, of the late 17th and 18th centuries. I have always been fascinated by this genre and a while back I thought to try my hand at it. Of course nature factors heavily into it and in this one I wanted to bring in the element of humanities tenuous connection to our natural world. For we both are a part of it and in many ways are becoming the controller of it.<br /><br />This artwork is for sale. It is an original pen and ink stippled drawing. It is drawn using Micron Sakuru archival ink pens and is drawn on Canson heavy weight, acid free, fine art paper. The size is 6" x 9". If you are interested in more details or have any questions at all do not hesitate to contact me at <a href="mailto:dashbyart@gmail.com">dashbyart@gmail.com</a>.<br /><br />Once again I hope you enjoy the art.<br /><br />Thanks, Doug.Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-44680562702914847302014-08-03T12:57:00.000-07:002014-08-03T12:57:03.807-07:00 Inspiration From My Childhood<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74zvdvLWA7c/U96PlYHo07I/AAAAAAAABUw/VkjQ2FUaPiY/s1600/rural+map+abstract+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74zvdvLWA7c/U96PlYHo07I/AAAAAAAABUw/VkjQ2FUaPiY/s1600/rural+map+abstract+1.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Drawing By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>When I was a boy my parents liked to take us on long road trips for many weeks. At the time I really did not enjoy it. I mean come on, imagine being twelve and trapped in the back of the car with your older sister for hours on end. Yup, not fun. However I have to say that years later I know I am better for all the experiences they gave us. And in the end I do it to my kids as well.<br /><br />On those long road trips, remember this was way before the iPhone, I was often looking for something to occupy my time. One of the most enjoyable things to do I found was looking at all the maps we brought along. And if you didn't guess this was also before GPS. There was something so interesting about the maps. Of course I enjoyed plotting where we were and how long to go before we arrived at our destination, however I now know there was something even more intriguing to me about those maps.<br /><br />Humans are interesting creatures. One of the more fascinating things is to see how we divide up our land. Boundaries on maps take on unique shapes that continually amaze and inspire me. Combine this with natural formations and maps, for me at least, provide a never ending and pleasurable viewing experience. This drawing here is one in a series of three I did inspired by maps.<br /><br />Specifically I was looking at city planning maps. This arena really can shine in interesting, human created, shapes and spaces. They also can be very boring if the only plan was a grid. In the end I didn't want it to look exactly like a map but an abstract that caught the eye and kept your attention. Maybe it just makes you wonder where the inspiration came from. Maybe you like the simplicity in the use of shape and line, maybe you even figure it all out.<br /><br />In the end I simply hope you like the drawing. I would love to hear from you if you do so do not hesitate to leave a comment.<br /><br />Thanks, Doug.Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-88788740378028711942014-07-18T09:43:00.001-07:002014-07-18T09:43:23.420-07:00Summertime Delicious........<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNoB2xpBjDQ/U8aLJjo7nNI/AAAAAAAABUY/DxJrdd8j5xk/s1600/kale+salad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNoB2xpBjDQ/U8aLJjo7nNI/AAAAAAAABUY/DxJrdd8j5xk/s1600/kale+salad.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kale, Watermelon, Grape &amp; Feta Salad</td></tr></tbody></table>I know that I don't take the best pics of my food. In many ways I see this blog as a real amateur effort in the creative realms. I love to cook and to dream up things to do with different foods. It most certainly is part of my overall want and need to draw and make music. Basically it is just another outlet of creativity with my hands. However don't come to expect professional quality pics of my food......sorry.<br /><br />With that said I have here a salad I recently made for my wife and I. I had been dreaming of feta cheese for a while after a long stint consuming smoked Gouda. There is a local company that makes the most delicious Gouda. However I wanted something a little lighter and more summery. So one night at the market I bought a block. Earlier in the day my wife bought a watermelon and cut it up. So the stage was set for this delicious salad.<br /><br />The bread was the tail end of a loaf I made a few days before and it was in the perfect place to soak up the dressing and watermelon juice. The kale is in season right now and I bought it at the local farm and the grapes were these nice plump green ones I bought at the market. I made a lime and honey vinaigrette and tossed it all together. Topping the whole thing with toasted almonds. It was a big hit with my wife, which is always a plus.<br /><br />Anyway here is the recipe:<br /><br />- 4-5 cups of stemmed and chomped kale<br />- 1/2 sliced red onion<br />- 2 large cloves of garlic finely chopped<br />- 1/2 brick of feta cheese cut into 1/4 inch cubes<br />- 3 cups of green grapes cut in half<br />- 3 cups of watermelon cut into 1/2 inch cubes<br />- 2 cups day old bread cut into 1/2 inch croutons<br />- 1 lime squeezed and zested<br />- 1 tablespoon of honey<br />- extra virgin olive oil<br />- salt and pepper to taste<br />- handful of roasted almonds<br /><br />Place all the cut up fruits and vegetables, bread and cheese into a large mixing bowl. In a small bowl zest the lime and then squeeze out the juice. Add the honey and salt and pepper. With a fork whisk the juice and honey as you add in the olive oil to make the vinaigrette. It will thicken and emulsify. When the dressing is done pour it over the salad and toss it real good with your hand or tongs. Place the dressed salad into a bowl to serve and top with roasted almonds. I roast my own in a small saute pan for about 10 -15 minutes at 250 degrees in the oven.<br /><br />And there you go. A perfect, light and healthy summer salad.<br /><br />Enjoy, Doug.Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-28107415334050340352014-07-07T12:29:00.002-07:002014-07-07T12:29:33.730-07:00My Latest Endeavor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><iframe allowFullScreen='true' webkitallowfullscreen='true' mozallowfullscreen='true' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxtGwXh3FOeR1z1DUCD0GtIeja40M42KuLmITOxO-yzyVbwuH5sRBzizDkB9LXAJpai_LVBQkSx4aOPSQ1ySA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' FRAMEBORDER='0' /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I was not even sure if I should upload this. Truthfully it's a bit lame. However, I will say it was my very first attempt ever at doing such a thing so I am going to share it anyway.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">About a year ago I started to play the guitar again. Not that much really as life was very busy at the time. It had been nearly twenty years since I had played and even back then I had no clue what I was doing. Still the itch to try again was strong so I bought a good, but not expensive, acoustic. It was a lot of fun. At that time though, as I said, we were very busy as we were fostering a little boy and if you have kids you know what I mean.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sadly this little man, after 16 month's, left us. It tore a hole in my family's heart. In the aftermath I decided to step up my music game a bit and I bought an electric. A really nice one. And I started taking lessons. Not long after, just a few weeks back, I decided I also wanted a piano. You see I dabbled a bit in that as well a lifetime ago. So I bought a pretty good electric one. I also bought a mike to record. This song here is my first effort at writing and recording.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">While it is only two tracks I do plan on expanding it a bit. However I have much to learn. As I said before it is a bit lame at this point, but what the hell.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So have a listen and know......I am just getting started. Oh and if you couldn't figure it out the song is about that little man that brought us so much.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thanks, Doug.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-64929111755241731072014-06-26T07:57:00.000-07:002014-06-26T07:57:34.164-07:00How We Learn.......<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P0oJAhx-aAE/U6wrbAWFpUI/AAAAAAAABT0/NlKu_kecyfQ/s1600/how+we+learn+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P0oJAhx-aAE/U6wrbAWFpUI/AAAAAAAABT0/NlKu_kecyfQ/s1600/how+we+learn+1.jpg" height="226" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Pen &amp; Ink Drawing By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>While this image was created some time ago there has been much ado about the subject lately in the news. I am not sure if you have heard any of these earth shattering reports but it seems......if you can believe this, that science has proven once and for all that reading to your children is a good thing. Earth shattering information right. Sometimes I am amazed at what seems like new and relevant information. Honestly I thought this one was a no brainier.<br /><br />The sad truth is that it is not. I started taking an interest in how kids learn to read back in September after listening to a few audio books that were recommend to me by a colleague. Seeing as reading is something I value in my life I wanted to know a little more about how we learn to do so. Honestly I can't remember learning cause I was very young. However, in the school I work in we are seeing an alarming increase in the number of fifth graders who simply can't read. This inability has a profound effect on their ability to succeed in school and subsequently in their future. So as a teacher I wanted to know more so I could better help our struggling students.<br /><br />There are many different strategies of course and with what my school is witnessing it really is a large scale intervention that should take precedence over all other aspects of the curriculum. In truth though it really does boil down to a solid parent child relationship, where the parent reads to their children. And early on at that. It seems so simple but the act of having your child sit in your lap, a trusting position, and reading though a book is what it takes to set a good and lasting foundation. Also note that here actual books are important as the tactile experience for the child, simply touching and holding the book, is important. Again an example of our brainy hands at work.<br /><br />This artwork depicts that relationship and it's significance. I would love to hear your thoughts on the matter so please do not hesitate to comment or get in touch via email.<br /><br />Thanks and as always I hope you enjoy the efforts of my brainy hands,<br /><br />Doug.<br /><br />Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2380488851038579876.post-23764415334583843882014-03-11T09:46:00.002-07:002014-03-11T09:46:28.425-07:00A Common Player In Our Microbial Life<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NfRNy9m3GeA/UtLG7U2V9aI/AAAAAAAABQI/BklfD7mX6c0/s1600/my+microbial+life+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NfRNy9m3GeA/UtLG7U2V9aI/AAAAAAAABQI/BklfD7mX6c0/s1600/my+microbial+life+2.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pen &amp; Ink Fine Art By Doug Ashby</td></tr></tbody></table>It might come as no surprise that one of my favorite items in this world to consume is beer. Not only do I love the taste I also believe that, if handled with care, beer is part of a healthy diet. Oh and before I forget I love how a few of them make me feel. Let's face it that is really why we all love alcohol. As dangerous as it can be treated well it is a marvel of human manipulation of our environment.<br /><br />But do we really manipulate that environment as be we believe. Many brew masters would beg to differ and give almost all of the credit for a great beer to the little fungus known as S. Cerevisiae. Otherwise know as yeast. Yup it is this ubiquitous critter, it literally is everywhere, that turns ordinary grains into the stuff so many of us adore.<br /><br />Still that is something that many of us hardly ever consider. Just how intertwined we are with this fungus. It has the dubious distinction of being the most studied life form on the planet, and yet we know very little about it. The question is have we adapted it to our purposes, or is it adapting us to it's? I mean lets face it much of our grain production in this world goes to producing beer and bread. The very thing S. Cerevisiae wants to chow down on. Many contemporary anthropologists currently believe that agriculture began in order to secure a steady beer supply. Interesting huh? For me it simply seems to be a wonderful and thriving symbiotic relationship.<br /><br />This drawing here is an attempt to capture the essence of the yeast doing it's job on the beer. The vegetation in the left corner is a hop, that which gives beer it's distinctive taste, and of course I needed to add an electron. After listening to a physics lecture on biological machinery the electron became the symbol of life for me.<br /><br />I hope you enjoy the art and thoughts.<br /><br />Thanks, Doug<br />The Opinionated Artist<br /><div><br /></div>Doug Ashbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15468346072130213211noreply@blogger.com0